8 new cases of Pandemic H1N1 influenza have been confirmed in Fiji this afternoon.

The Health Ministry confirms five cases are from Suva, while 2 are from Nadi and one from Lautoka.

This brings the total number of confirmed cases of H1N1 to 19.

There are now six children who are below 7 years old affected by the influenza.

No patients have been hospitalised so far. A total of 211 tests have been received at the national testing facility at Mataika house.

Health Ministry Spokesperson, Iliesa Tora said they had expected the number to rise they rae prepared for the worse scenario.

He adds people need to be more responsible now.